One difficulty in launching cooperation in the field of logistics between Finland/EU and Russia are the differences in terminology. Terms acquire different meanings through different cultures and courses of action, which can lead to misunderstandings. In logistics, a lot of new terms come into usage because of the use of new technology, particularly new information technology systems. Concepts have also been defined by many actors outside the field of logistics.

The definition of concepts is necessary in order to automate processes and intensify traffic control across borders. Even with the rapidly advanced technology, the data for the information systems has to be fairly exact. Consequently, profound and comprehensive definitions of concepts at the earliest possible stage will benefit all the parties involved. So far there has been no EU-wide project for defining logistics concepts in several languages.

Against this background, logistics terms should be gathered and their content and conditions of use defined.

Project description

A logistics terminology project was launched in 2006. In terms of the languages originally involved, the work is expected to be completed by the end of 2008.

Concepts of foreign trade logistics and transport are defined in Finnish, Russian, English and Swedish. The concepts cover foreign trade and related transports on a wider basis than just logistics. In customs terminology, the outcome of a recent terminological work is used as source material.

Members of the project working group are leading experts in logistics, trade and linguistics from Finland and Russia.

The project will be carried out in two stages:

Preliminary study – material collection and content definition of the actual work

Actual terminological definition work

Objective

The objective of the project is to produce a glossary of logistics terms for the use of trade and transport cooperation.

A draft version of the glossary has been widely distributed for comments and the Russian and English sections have been reviewed by a working group chaired by academician Rezer. A printed version is expected to be published in 2008.

The ad hoc working group on EU-Russia logistics has been informed of the glossary. The group decided to recommend that the work be extended to cover other languages too.